George Washington

An essay for those who want to learn more about George Washington

Geroge Washington

George Washington was born 22, February, 1732 and died  14, December, 1799) He was the first President of the United States between 1789 and 1797. 

According to his physically appearance:

He had white hair and usually wore a wig. His forehead was quite wide and his nose too. He had blue eyes, white skin and his lips were really thin.

He used to wear dark and black clothes.

He is known because of its honesty and he is also an unselfish and kind-hearted person.

He was called ‘The father of his country’ and played a determining role in helping to unite America as a nation by promoting his republican view of fundamental human rights and liberty.

Although George Washington himself employed some slaves he expressed his wish to see slavery ended and in his will instructed that all slaves employed by him would be freed on the death of his wife.

As the unanimously elected first president of the United States, George Washington had to undertake a number of fundamental tasks in order to give structure and direction to the new nation. In 1787 he had a very important role in overseeing the writing of the Constitution.

Once president he was very aware that as the first, his actions would set a precedent for others to follow in the future. One of the first was to make America a financially strong country and to do this he began to pay off the debts of the colonies, set up a tax system and a national bank. The strength of the American dollar in the world today can be traced back to establishment of this system and it seems appropriate that the one dollar bill bears his image.

Equally important was the establishment of a judiciary system done in 1789 which created a working legal system for all states and citizens. At the same time he also created the position of postmaster general to organize and formalize the postal system in the United States which at the time was the only means of distance communication.

Washington realized the importance of establishing a permanent location for government and chose a site beside the Potomac River on the banks of which he himself had been born. It was later to become known as Washington DC in his honor.

When asked to lead the Continental Army he didn’t feel himself worthy and did not intend to present himself as a candidate for the presidency but was convinced to do so. Though he may not have known it himself, he was a great leader and this was recognized by those around him. He was considered the only man with sufficient experience, charisma and leadership qualities capable of successfully leading American towards a new future. While Washington did not want to accept the responsibility asked of him due to his own humility he was unable to refuse the positions of Commander in chief of the Continental Army or president because of his sense of duty to his country.

It could be argued that George Washington has been the most important president in the history of the United States. As a new country not only did it require strong leadership but also a figure that could instill values in society such as integrity, discipline and patriotism. Washington did all of this and much more and his motto of ‘deeds not words’ reflected his attitude of being a great servant to his country but whilst still being a great leader amongst men. 

He is considered a great patriot who served his country with honor and integrity always aware of the responsibility of his position and his duty to serve the people.